THUNDER BAY - The provincial government is investing $37 million to expand mental health services in the justice system across the province and several communities in Northwestern Ontario will receive support.
Of the $37 million, $6.5 million will be earmarked for mobile crisis services in 33 communities, including Red Lake, Sioux Lookout, Dryden, Atikokan, and Fort William First Nation.
This funding will allow these communities to launch or expand mobile crisis services, which will help those experiencing a mental health or addictions issue and determine if the issue can be resolved at the scene or if further supports are needed, such as medical intervention.
“Whether you live in the Greater Toronto Area or Ontario's far north, our government continues to ensure that we protect the brave women and men on the frontlines, and ensure they have access to the supports they need, when and where they need them," said Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo.
"By significantly expanding access to services across Ontario's justice sector, we are providing the right services to help keep our communities safe."
Additional funding will benefit Kenora, with $2 million for addictions and withdrawal specialists to support safe beds in eight communities, including Kenora.
A $1.1 million will also be used to provide mental health and additions support to break the cycle of offending and help create safer communities in Kenora, London, and parts of Toronto and provide access to culturally relevant mental health and addictions services.
"Our government is working collaboratively across all sectors to provide long-term stability to our mental health and addictions system, including our justice system," said Minister of Health Christine Elliott. "We are making it a priority to ensure that all Ontarians who need more mental health and addictions support, have access to the high-quality services and supports they need."
"Ontario's police officers respond to tens of thousands of mental health calls a year and we need to make sure they have the right training, as well as extra support from professional mental health workers to respond to these calls, and save lives," added Premier Doug Ford.
"Expanding our mobile crisis services will help those in crisis get the mental health supports they need, while ensuring our police and their community partners can work more effectively together and stay safe while handling these types of calls."
